Syngenta is showcasing plots of its new aphid-resistant soybeans at the Syngenta Learning Centers across the Midwest this summer. Anticipated to be offered commercially for the 2009 planting season, the soybeans with the aphid-resistant trait offer growers another choice for combating yield-robbing aphid infestations. 

The aphid-resistant trait is based on the Rag1 gene discovered at the University of Illinois in 2003.  It is a “native” trait, meaning the gene that provides resistance to the soybean aphid is naturally occurring in soybeans and is not genetically modified through biotechnology.  Once the Rag1 gene was discovered, Syngenta was able to successfully transfer it by using multiple backcrosses into elite Midwestern varieties. 

“In any given field where aphids occur and are left to multiply, research shows that yield losses have been as high as 50 percent,” said Virgil Sparks, soybean product development, western head, Syngenta.  Syngenta’s new aphid-resistant trait provides growers with a genetic choice to manage aphid damage.”

Since aphids first emerged in the United States, they have been challenging growers in the North and Midwest with an unpredictable infestation pattern of low-pressure and high-pressure outbreaks.  These outbreaks have caused stunted growth, disfigured leaves, poor pod formation, plant death and reduced yields.

According to experts at Iowa State University, aphid populations increase substantially in size during mid- to late-July and early August.  Aphids do not leave visible feeding scars, making it difficult to determine when soybean aphid populations are present.  When aphids are found, an insecticide application is recommended if the average number of aphids is 250 per plant* on 80 percent of plants, and the population appears to be increasing in size. 

There are crop protection and seed treatment options available to help with aphid infestations, including CruiserMaxx™ Beans and Warrior® with Zeon Technology®. 

“Syngenta is dedicated to providing growers more options to manage their soybean productivity,” said Brad Wiersum, head of soybean marketing, Syngenta.  “Syngenta is a leader in crop production research, and development of this new soybean aphid-resistant trait is one example of how we are investing significant resources to help growers overcome production challenges.”

To learn more about aphid-resistant soybeans at a Syngenta Learning Center near you this summer, contact a local representative for dates and times, or log on to www.learningcenters.farmassist.com.